At one point in our lives work will inevitabliy become a major stressor in our lives. Our blood pressure has been shown to be highest during our daily work hours and it tends to be higher on an actual workday versus a day off (Pickering, 2004). High stress level can raise blood pressure and cause other health issues to arise. If we are under constant stress our blood pressure goes up, stress can cause us to over eat which mean we may exercise less often, and you may be more likely to start smoking (Pickering, 2004).

There are a few things to look for as warning signs of stress:

1. Physical signs such as dizziness, aches and pains, headaches, difficulty sleeping
2. Mental signs such as constant worry, forgetfulness, having difficulty concentrating
3. Emotional signs such as anger, anxiety, negative thinking, irritability
4. Behavioral signs such as compulsive eating, bossiness, critical attitude of others, withdrawal of social situations (Klodas, 2012)

Here are some ways to cope with stress and lower the health issues to help with stress and lower your blood pressure

1. Be sure you are eating smart and drinking plenty of water
2. Stand up for yourself, it is ok to say NO to a new project if you are already overwhelmed
3. If you are smoking, quit
4. Have a regular exercise regimen, set reasonable goals. Try to do some aerobic exercises as they help to release the happy hormone (Endorphins)
5. Find a time to relax every day
6. Control what you are able to and just push back what you have no control over
7. Reduce causes of stress-ask for help when needed, set priorities, pace yourself, and again make sure you have "Me" time
8. Look at the values you are currently live by, if you actions are reflecting your beliefs you will feel better
9. Set Realistic goals
10. Sell yourself to yourself-when you start to become stressed, stop and just think of all the things you are already good at-have a healthy self-image
11. GET ENOUGH SLEEP (Klodas, 2012)

Always stay calm, even if that means taking a break, breathe and think about your choices. Know you can get through the situation you are in. Be realistic and flexible and try to keep the situation in perspective; and remember that you can learn from every situation (Klodas, 2012)

To help you stay relaxed try deep breathing, stretch out your neck and back, listen to some calming music, or take a walk outside (this counts as exercise).

There is a lot of information on reducing stress and blood pressure. Visit Stress and High Blood Pressure from WebMD to learn more on foods that can help as well as the importance of sleep.

Klodas MD, Elizabeth (2012). Stress and high blood pressure. WebMD Hypertension/High Blood Pressure Health Center. Retrieved from http://www.webmd.com/hypertension-high-blood-pressure/guide/hypertension-easing-stress

Pickering MD, T (2004). Work and blood pressure. Medscape News Today. Retrieved on February 15, 2013 from http://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/483505